IOL Kidnapped KZN businessman Zakariyya Desai has been released after five months. Picture: Unsplash
Image: Unsplash
The family of KwaZulu-Natal businessman Zakariya Desai is relieved after his release following a five-month kidnapping ordeal.
Desai, one of the owners of Desai's Cash & Carry in KwaDukuza, was taken by force by suspects driving a silver VW Polo after a night prayer on September 9, 2024.
The suspects fired several shots while others attempted to intervene during the kidnapping.
The Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigation (known as the Hawks) confirmed that Desai had been released.
Salim Tootla, a family spokesperson told IOL: "The family is thankful to the All Mighty for the safe return of Zakariyah and the prayers of the many people."
Tootla said the family requests privacy at this time.
He said they would not comment any further at this stage.
Last month, charges were withdrawn against two Mozambican nationals and a South African Police Service (SAPS) officer arrested in connection with Desai's kidnapping.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) announced that the charges against Esmael Maulide Ramos Nangy, Stefane Pereira Da Costa Brites, and Samkeliso Honest Mlotshwa have been withdrawn.
They were arrested on charges of kidnapping, extortion, and attempted murder
KZN Hawks spokesperson Captain Simphiwe Mhlongo told IOL on Tuesday morning that there was not much information available at this stage as the family had requested time.
He said there were no arrests made at this stage.
IOL News
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